BICKNELL — Five family members died after a flash flood swept through canyons in southern Utah on Friday. Authorities believe the family fell victim to flooding caused by heavy rains.

The deceased were identified as Provo Fire Captain Spencer Long, his wife Katrina, and their sons Reid, Thayne, and Gage. Spencer Long was 59 years old. The family's daughter, Lydia, survived the incident as she was not on the trip.

The family arrived at Sunglow Campground near Bicknell, Utah, at approximately 11:30 a.m. on Friday for a day of hiking and canyoneering. Campground is located in a steep box canyon at an elevation of 7,200 feet near Capitol Reef National Park. Wayne County Sheriff's deputies were called to Campground at approximately 5 p.m. on Friday after a report of a found body.

Deputies discovered the body of a young male in a wash near the campground upon arrival. County Search and Rescue crews found two additional deceased males in the same wash during the search. The remaining two bodies were recovered on Saturday.

The deceased were transported to the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner for positive identification. The incident remains under investigation. County resident James Todd Manwill recalled watching a heavy emergency presence, including the Highway Patrol and deputies from both Sevier and Wayne counties, rush past his home toward the scene. All search teams have cleared the area, and the campground is no longer restricted to access.

The Fire Department confirmed the deaths of Spencer Long and his family in a social media post. Fire Department officials wrote: "We are absolutely heartbroken by the death of Captain Spencer Long and his family. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time." Fire and Rescue stated on Facebook: "Out of respect for the family and the ongoing official process, we will not be commenting further at this time." The Fire & Rescue changed its Facebook profile photo to include a black mourning band across the emblem. The Provo Firefighters Union wildland rapid extraction team was called away from a wildfire in Blanding to assist in the situation.

A GoFundMe site was set up by a family friend to support the Longs' daughter. The GoFundMe fundraiser exceeded its target of $100,000 in one day. The GoFundMe page reads: "She lost the people she loved most and now faces the overwhelming challenge of moving forward while carrying an unimaginable grief." The GoFundMe page reads: "No amount of money can replace the family Lydia has lost, but together we can help ease some of the burdens she now carries. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference and remind her that she is surrounded by a caring community."

The deaths of five members of a single family highlight the risks associated with flash flooding in Utah's canyon terrain. The incident involved a senior member of a municipal fire department, drawing response resources from local and regional emergency services. The rapid establishment of a fundraising effort that exceeded its initial goal reflects community support for the surviving family member.